Member Alerts & Notices

March 6, 2018 —
ASTA Launches New Member Communication Platforms
Our goal at the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) is to provide you with the most relevant and compelling content that will help you better serve your clients and grow your businesses.

November 8, 2017 —
Trump Administration Issues New Cuba Regulations
Today, the Trump Administration released updated regulations governing U.S. trade and travel with Cuba.As you will remember from our June member alert, President Trump announced at that time that these regulations would be updated "in the coming months."

July 28, 2017 —
Guidance on Recent Reports Related to Mexico
As you may have heard, a number of reports have appeared recently in the national news media regarding safety concerns for tourists visiting Mexico.

July 20, 2017 —
Tell Congress to Take Travel Agents Off the Blacklist!
With the U.S. House of Representatives scheduled to depart for their annual August Recess on Friday, July 28, now is the time to get your Member of Congress to sign onto The Travel Agent Retail Fairness Act (H.R. 2515).

June 29, 2017 —
Pennsylvania Call to Action – Sales Tax on Travel Agents
ASTA has been monitoring the Pennsylvania budget situation throughout the year as the Governor and General Assembly have worked through the process.

June 23, 2017 —
House, Senate FAA Bills Introduced
This week, legislation was introduced in both the House and Senate to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and set federal aviation policy generally.

May 26, 2017 —
British Airways, Iberia Announce GDS Surcharge
Today, The Beat, a travel business newsletter, is reporting that British Airways (BA) and Iberia (IB) will charge a fee for bookings made through indirect channels, including the GDSs.

May 22, 2017 —
ASTA Inspired Bill Hits the Halls of Congress
We are thrilled to announce that yesterday, Florida Rep. Francis Rooney (R-FL 19th) introduced The Travel Agent Retail Fairness Act in the U.S. Congress.

May 5, 2017 —
Update on Colorado Supreme Court Tax Decision
An important case with potentially significant implications for the travel industry was decided by the Supreme Court of Colorado last Monday.

April 27, 2017 —
Closure of Miami Passport Agency
As you can see from the note below and here, the State Department's passport office in Miami is closed due to water damage.

April 26, 2017 —
Alitalia on Verge of Bankruptcy
According to news reports, Italian flagship carrier Alitalia appears to be on the verge of bankruptcy, its workers having rejected a government-brokered agreement that would have released 2 billion euros in investments from its managing shareholder...

March 16, 2017 —
Florida Action Alert - Help Protect Visit Florida
As you have probably heard, last week the Florida House of Representatives passed legislation cut the budget of Visit Florida, the state's tourism promotion entity...

March 8, 2017 —
Update on Non-Binding EU Vote to Restrict Americans' Visa-Free Travel
Last week, the European Union (EU) Parliament passed a non-binding resolution calling for the reintroduction of visa requirements for American citizens...

March 6, 2017 —
Trump Administration Issues New Immigration Order
Today, the Trump Administration issued a new executive order "allow[ing] for the proper review and establishment of standards to prevent terrorist or criminal infiltration by foreign nationals."

February 6, 2017 —
Act Now! Missouri REAL ID Compliance Vote This Week
In January 2018, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will begin implementing the final phase of the so-called REAL ID Act which sets standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification...

February 6, 2017 —
Update on DOL "Blacklist" Issue
We wanted to update you on where things stand on our efforts to remove travel agencies from a U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) regulatory "blacklist" that blocks them from utilizing an exemption to federal overtime rules.

January 27, 2017 —
Update - New DOT Proposal on Bag Fee Disclosure
On January 17, in the waning days of the Obama Administration, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) released a proposal to require airlines and "ticket agents" (travel agents) to disclose...

January 25, 2017 —
ASTA to Address Supplier Direct Incentive Payment Issues
As you may know, a number of suppliers and other vendors in the travel industry have begun to offer commissions and similar incentive payments directly to agency employees.

December 6, 2016 —
DOT Delays Effective Date for Display Bias, Code-Share Disclosure Rule
Last week, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced an extension of the compliance date for two of the new airline passenger protection regulations announced in October...

November 30, 2016 —
Premium-Only Update: Display Bias Rules Coming, Overtime Development
With the effective date for a new federal regulation impacting agency operations fast approaching and a major development on another happening last week...

November 23, 2016 —
Federal Judge Blocks Implementation of Department of Labor's New Overtime Rule
Yesterday, a federal district court in the Eastern District of Texas issued an order enjoining implementation of the Department of Labor's (DOL's) new rule...

November 9, 2016 —
The 2016 Election and Its Impacts on Our Industry
As the dust settles from yesterday's election, here is our initial analysis on what the election results mean for our industry and your business.

October 12, 2016 —
Clarification on Travel Weekly Article re: Consumer Awareness Plan
You may have seen a recent article in Travel Weekly about ASTA's plans to fund its consumer awareness initiatives.

September 1, 2016 —
Update on DOT Ancillary Fee Rulemaking

August 31, 2016 —
Update on DOT Ancillary Fee Rulemaking
We wanted to share with you a major update on the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) rulemaking on airline ancillary fees and other consumer protection issues.

August 24, 2016 —
DOT Penalty Amounts Climb – ASTA Regulatory Compliance Course Essential
On August 10, 2016, the Department of Transportation (DOT) issued an "interim final rule" to adjust for inflation the maximum penalties that can be imposed for violations of aviation...

August 2, 2016 —
Zika Virus Update
Yesterday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expanded its Zika virus travel warning to include people living in or traveling to...

July 8, 2016 —
FAA Reauthorization Update
ASTA has spent the better part of this year working to protect your interests in the debate over the FAA reauthorization bill, "must-pass" aviation policy legislation moving through Congress.

June 23, 2016 —
Cuba Vote This Week – Act Now!
This week, the U.S. House of Representatives will vote on the so-called Cuba travel ban. The vote will be on an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2017...

June 2, 2016 —
Action Requested – 7 Days Left to Push Insurance Bill Over the Finish Line
The New York legislature is scheduled to adjourn on June 16, giving us only seven legislative days to push Assembly Bill 7971 across the finish line.

June 1, 2016 —
U. S. State Department Issues Europe Travel Alert
We wanted you to be aware that yesterday the U. S. State Department advised citizens traveling throughout Europe to exercise vigilance in public places...

May 18, 2016 —
ASTA Working for You: Travel Insurance Reform Effort Enters Home Stretch
For more than five years, ASTA and the U.S. Travel Insurance Association (UStiA) have been working together to reduce regulatory concerns for travel agents who are offering travel...

May 18, 2016 —
DOL Issues Final Overtime Rule
Effective Dec. 1, Guarantees Time-and-a-Half Pay to Anyone Making More Than $47,476 per Year

March 31, 2016 —
Pennsylvania Budget Standoff Ends with No New Tax on Travel Agents
After a nine-month battle waged by ASTA members against Governor Tom Wolf's proposal to broaden a state tax to include travel agents...

March 23, 2016 —
New Cuba Regulations Allow for Individual "People-to-People" Travel
On March 16, 2016, the U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued a new set of regulations related to Cuba, including provisions related to travel designed to "further...

January 27, 2016 —
Zika Virus Warning Update
Since our last member alert on Jan. 19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has expanded its Zika virus travel warning to an additional eight countries.

January 19, 2016 —
CDC Zika Virus Warning
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is urging pregnant women — at any stage of pregnancy — to consider postponing travel to 14 destinations...

January 14, 2016 —
Maryland Action Alert - Override Vote January 19
We have learned that the Senate vote on whether or not to "override" Governor Larry Hogan's veto of Senate Bill (SB) 190 is now likely to take place on Tuesday...

January 8, 2016 —
Breaking News: DHS Delays REAL ID Implementation Until 2018
We wanted you to know as soon as we heard – the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today decided to delay full implementation of the REAL ID Act requirements until January 22, 2018.

January 8, 2016 —
HazMat Disclosure Requirements Change Jan. 1 - Are You Ready?
On January 1, 2016, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) will put in place new hazardous materials disclosure requirements that likely will impact you.

January 7, 2016 —
Real ID Update - Get the Facts
ASTA Members: We have seen a number of misleading news articles this week related to the federal Real ID Act, which sets standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards...

January 5, 2016 —
Maryland Action Alert - Contact Your Senators Before January 14
As soon as January 14, the Maryland Senate could vote on whether or not to "override" Governor Larry Hogan's veto of Senate Bill (SB) 190. Though aimed at the OTAs, this bill...

November 19, 2015 —
Illinois Call to Action #3 - Gov. Rauner's Proposal to Tax Travel Agent Services
As the Illinois budget gridlock enters its fifth month, we wanted to update you on the situation in Springfield as the Illinois legislature continues work...

November 19, 2015 —
Terrorism's Impact on Travel: Your Input Urgently Needed
There's a lot going on in the world, and ASTA wants to make what you do every day to protect your customers known within the industry and to the traveling public.

November 11, 2015 —
Pennsylvania Call to Action - Sales Tax on Travel Agents
Earlier this year Governor Tom Wolf submitted his Fiscal Year 2015-2016 budget to the Pennsylvania General Assembly, which includes a proposal to increase the Commonwealth's...

November 6, 2015 —
DHS, Effective Immediately, Increases Security at Some Non-U.S. Airports
Out of an abundance of caution, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Administrator Jeh Johnson and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are enhancing security at certain non-U.S. airports...

October 21, 2015 —
IATA Releases Report on What Travel Agents Think About NDC
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released a study ("NDC: Travel Agencies' Enabler to Success") of travel agencies' knowledge...

October 21, 2015 —
Update on ASTA Campaign Against Misleading Hotel Marketing
When ASTA sees a supplier who appears to be circumventing their travel agent partners or engaging in activity that could harm our members...

October 16, 2015 —
Three States Receive Real ID Extensions
Three states (Louisiana, New Hampshire and New York) have received Real ID extensions since we issued a member alert on September 17...

September 19, 2015 —
Administration Issues New Cuba Regulations
Yesterday, the U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced new regulations to further implement the policy changes...

September 18, 2015 —
TSA Ends Managed Inclusion Program at Airport PreCheck ✓ Lanes
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has confirmed to ASTA that effective September 14 it phased out its "Managed Inclusion...

September 17, 2015 —
Deadline Approaching for New Air Travel ID Requirements
As soon as January 2016, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will begin implementing the final phase of the so-called REAL ID Act...

September 15, 2015 —
American Airlines and Delta Airlines End Interline Agreement Effective September 15
Unable to come to terms, American Airlines and Delta Airlines have mutually agreed to end their interline agreement effective September 15.

September 10, 2015 —
Turkish Embassy Offers ASTA Members Further Insight into Turkey Travel Warning
On September 3, 2015, ASTA published a Member Alert pertaining to the Turkey Travel Warning issued...

September 8, 2015 —
U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Delays Final Airline Passenger Protection Rules Until 2016
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has delayed the publication of its final Airline Passenger Protections III rules from December 1, 2015...

September 3, 2015 —
Turkey Travel Warning Issued by State Department
ASTA members with clients in or planning to travel to Turkey should be aware of a recent travel warning issued by the U.S. Department of State.

September 2, 2015 —
Act Now to Urge DOL to Reconsider Its Overtime Proposal
New Rules Would Guarantee Time-and-a-Half Pay to Anyone Making Less Than $50,000 Per Year

August 20, 2015 —
ARC Alerts Customers to Two Full System and One Product Outage
ARC system outages are necessary in order to perform a database migration and security updates.

August 7, 2015 —
ASTA Officials Elections Results
ASTA, the global advocates for travel, has announced the results of its recent elections.

July 24, 2015 —
U.S. Department of Labor Proposing Major Changes to Overtime Regulations
On July 6, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued proposed updates to the regulations governing which employees are entitled to overtime pay protections under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

July 23, 2015 —
Mandatory Hotel Resort Fees – What Are My Obligations?
Last month the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) held a meeting of its Advisory Committee for Aviation Consumer Protection.

July 1, 2015 —
Unembossed Credit Cards - Can They be Used in the Agency Environment and Are There Risks?
ASTA has received a number of inquiries from members regarding the growing appearance of unembossed credit cards.

June 30, 2015 —
Credit Card Chip Technology is Here - Are You Impacted and Ready?
On October 1, 2015, liability for "card-in-hand" credit card transactions will fall to retailers without updated credit card readers and software.

June 12, 2015 —
Ohio Update – Senate Budget Rejects Sales Tax on “Travel Services”
More good news! On Monday the Ohio Senate put out its version of the Fiscal Year 2016-2017 budget...

June 3, 2015 —
Action Alert – Tell Congress to Support Sanford-Lee Amendment on Cuba Travel
This week, the U.S. House of Representatives is considering legislation that includes language to block any new air or maritime passenger service to Cuba.

June 1, 2015 —
DOT Makes Inflation Adjustments for Denied Boarding Compensation, Baggage Liability and Civil Penalties
Effective with air transportation taking place on August 25, 2015, the DOT is raising the maximum denied boarding compensation amount (in effect since August 2011) from $650 to $675...

May 21, 2015 —
Clock Ticking on Special Session, Travel Agent Tax Still in Play
With the clocking ticking on the Washington legislature’s special budget session, little has changed since our last alert.

May 19, 2015 —
DOT Updates Mistaken Fares Policy
On May 8, the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Office of Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings issued a statement regarding its enforcement policy on “mistaken fares.”

May 18, 2015 —
New Rules for Traveling to South Africa with Children Go Into Effect June 1
Clients who will be travelling to the Republic of South Africa with children should be made aware of new rules on the documentation...

May 15, 2015 —
Tom Harper River Journeys Appears to Have Closed
ASTA has been informed, and has confirmed, that Newton, MA-based tour operator Tom Harper River Journeys’ (also doing business as Tom Harper Cruises, LLC)...

May 6, 2015 —
Last chance to urge Govenor Hogan to veto SB190
We are reaching out one last time to urge you to contact Governor Larry Hogan and ask him to veto Senate Bill (SB) 190, which would subject the fees charged...

April 30, 2015 —
Maine Call to Action – Sales Tax on Travel Agents
As you may have heard, earlier this year Governor Paul LePage submitted his Fiscal Year 2016-2017 budget to the Maine State Legislature.

April 28, 2015 —
Be Wary of Company Claiming to Sell AGC Hotel Rooms
Please be advised that a firm by the name of Exhibitors Housing Management may be contacting you purporting to be authorized to sell hotel room space at the ASTA Global Convention headquarters hotel—the Omni Shoreham in Washington, DC...

April 28, 2015 —
Tourism Cares Creates Napal recovery Fund
Our hearts go out to Nepal as we watch the region recover from a devastating earthquake.
In a message sent to our nine Nepalese ASTA members yesterday, Zane Kerby...

April 24, 2015 —
Volcano Eruptions in Chile
Two eruptions from a volcano in southern Chile since noon on Wednesday April 22, have the potential to impede travel not only to Chile but...

April 20, 2015 —
Ohio Update – Help Needed in Senate to Keep Travel Services Tax Out of the Budget
the Ohio House’s version of the Fiscal Year 2016-2017 budget released last week does not include Governor Kasich’s proposal to increase the state’s sales tax from 5.75 percent to 6.25 percent...

April 8, 2015 —
Ask Governor Hogan to Veto Sales Tax Bill
Today, the Maryland House of Delegates passed legislation (SB 190/HB 1065) by a vote of 84 to 56 that would apply the state’s six percent sales tax ...

April 7, 2015 —
TSA Ramping Down Precheck for Frequent Flier "Opt-Ins"
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has given travelers two pathways for utilizing...

April 6, 2015 —
ASTA Releases Sample Cuba Travel Certification Form
ASTA has developed a sample certification form for use with...

March 31, 2015 —
Washington Call to Action – B&O Tax Increase on Travel Agents
As you know, since the 1970s travel agents and tour operators in the State of Washington pay a reduced state business and occupation

March 9, 2015 —
Ohio Call to Action – Sales Tax on Travel Agents
As you may have heard, last month Governor John Kasich submitted his Fiscal Year 2016-2017 budget to the Ohio General Assembly.

February 13, 2015 —
Unauthorized Websites Selling ASTA Destination Expo
We have discovered that a website called HotelsOnTheWorld.com claims to be selling booth space and possibly hotel rooms for the ASTA Destination Expo (ADE) in Morocco...

February 10, 2015 —
MD Call to Action Help Fight New Taxes on Agencies
We need your help to fight bill pending in the Maryland General Assembly that would apply the state’s six percent sales tax to the service fees or other markups...

February 6, 2015 —
Virginia Legislative Update Senate Votes Down Hotel Tax Bill
We are pleased to report that the Virginia Senate voted yesterday against a bill (SB1210) that would subject the fees charged...

February 5, 2015 —
ASTA Chapters, Members Make a Difference in Their Communities
Almost $30,000 Donated to Local Charities in 2014

February 4, 2015 —
Virginia Call to Action – Help Fight New Tax on Hotel Booking Fees
We need your help to fight a bill moving through the Virginia Senate that will impose new taxes...

February 2, 2015 —
Nebraska Member Update – Travel Insurance Reform Bill to be Heard Tomorrow
We wanted to make you aware that the Nebraska Legislature’s Banking, Commerce and Insurance Committee will be holding a hearing tomorrow...

January 16, 2015 —
Talking Points on Cuba Travel
Understanding the Administration's Easing of Restrictions on Travel to Cuba, effective January 16, 2015

January 15, 2015 —
Administration Issues New Cuba Regulations - What It Means for Travel Agents
Today, the departments of Commerce and the Treasury issued regulations to implement the policy changes announced by President Obama last month to further engage and empower the Cuban people.

January 13, 2015 —
Opt-Out Notices Must be Placed on Faxes Even if Recipient Has Consented to Receive Them
ASTA members who solicit clients via fax should be aware of a recent ruling from the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) ...

November 12, 2014 —
Agents Should be Aware of 3-Day Cooling Off Rule
Travel professionals who sell travel outside their permanent place of business should be aware of...

November 10, 2014 —
The 2014 Election and Its Impact on Our Industry
As the dust settles from Tuesday’s election, we wanted to update you on what the election results mean for our industry and your business.

November 5, 2014 —
DHS Announces Enhancements to ESTA System for Visa Waiver Country Visitors
ASTA members with foreign clients who regularly travel to the U.S. should be aware of yesterday’s announcement from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)...

November 5, 2014 —
Marriott International, Inc. Free Wi-Fi Offer
As many of you may know by now, Marriott International Inc. announced on Oct. 30 that, as of January 15, 2015, it will offer free Wi-Fi...

November 5, 2014 —
U.S. Government Announces Enhancements to ESTA System for Visa Waiver Country Visitors
If you have clients who regularly travel to the U.S., you should be aware of yesterday’s announcement from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regarding...

October 9, 2014 —
Ebola Update
As the crisis over the Ebola virus disease outbreak in West Africa (including the first documented case in the United States) continues to unfold...

September 25, 2014 —
ASTA Member News
ASTA Global Convention 2015—Aug. 29-Sept. 1 in Washington, D.C. at the Omni Shoreham Hotel. We will have special programming planned just for our international members at the beginning of the AGC, as well as surprise events sprinkled throughout the convention.

September 4, 2014 —
Beware of Scam Email Targeting Travel Professionals
Once again, fraudsters are hard at work. This time it’s a scam claiming to be from ASTA’s CEO...

September 2, 2014 —
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings to Buy Prestige Cruises for $3.025 Billion
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings announced today that it has entered a definitive agreement to acquire Prestige Cruises International...

August 12, 2014 —
Travel Pulse
I wanted to be sure you saw this Editor’s Notebook column—Join Me on Norwegian Breakaway!

August 5, 2014 —
CDC Travel Level 3 Notices Issued for travel to Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia, Level 2 Notice Issued for travel to Nigeria
As a member of the Tourism Emergency Response Network (TERN), which is managed by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), ASTA has been asked to update our members on the Ebola virus...

July 29, 2014 —
Update on the Transparent Airfares Act (H.R. 4156)

July 25, 2014 —
Action Urgently Needed to Stop the So-Called Transparent Airfares Act
As you may know, ASTA has spent the last several months engaged in a congressional fight against H.R. 4156, the so-called “Transparent Airfares Act.”

June 23, 2014 —
Rockefeller Cruise Bill to be Considered by Senate Commerce Committee
On Friday, ASTA learned that Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-WV), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, intends to offer...

June 11, 2014 —
American Airlines (AA) Addendum
ASTA has completed its review of the recently issued American Airlines (AA) Addendum to the ARC Agent Reporting Agreement and IATA Passenger Sales Agency Agreement.

June 5, 2014 —
Fight Against Anti-Consumer Bill Entering Critical Phase
First, we want to say thank you to those who responded to our April 23 and April 29 “action alerts” on the “Transparent Airfares Act of 2014” (H.R. 4156)...

May 29, 2014 —
California Member Alert – Need Feedback on Travel Insurance Problems.
For several years ASTA has been working with the U.S. Travel Insurance Association (UStiA) and others to replace the 50-state web of regulations governing how travel agents...

May 27, 2014 —
2013 ASTAPAC Annual Report Now Online!
As Co-Chairs of the American Society of Travel Agents Political Action Committee (ASTAPAC) Board of Governors...

May 22, 2014 —
DOT Issues Two Long-Awaited Decisions: Tentative Approval of IATA Resolution 787, New Consumer Protection Rules Proposal
On Wednesday, May 21 the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) released two much-anticipated documents that will have a major impact on how airline tickets are distributed...

April 29, 2014 —
Frontier Airlines “Simplifies” Fares:
Effective April 28, 2014, Frontier Airlines reduced the number of fare options it offers to just two – Economy and Classic Plus, and both are available through the GDSs.

April 29, 2014 —
Member Update on Transportation Airfares Act
We want to update you on where things stand since we issued our April 23 “action alert” on the so-called “Transparent Airfares Act of 2014” (H.R. 4156), legislation...

April 25, 2014 —
ASTA Packs Agenda for Annual Conference on board the Breakaway to Bermuda
The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) has added Chief Visioneer of Future Proof Travel Solutions, Nolan Burris, to its evolving and jam-packed agenda...

April 23, 2014 —
Help Us Stop Airline-Supported Anti-Consumer Bill in Congress
We need your help to stop legislation being pushed through Congress by the airlines that will roll back consumer protections on airfare transparency and make comparison...

April 18, 2014 —
Arizona Update – Travel Insurance Reform Passed
We are pleased to report that Arizona House Bill (HB) 2047, which would put the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)...

April 18, 2014 —
Rhode Island Call to Action – Help Fight New 13% Tax on Hotel Booking Fees 04/17/14
the Governor’s Fiscal Year 2015 budget creates a new definition of taxable business: a “room reseller,” defined in a way that includes some travel agency business models

April 11, 2014 —
Maryland Update – Travel Insurance Reform Passed
We are pleased to report that Maryland Senate Bill (SB) 79, which would put the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) standard for state regulation...

April 1, 2014 —
Scam “IATA” Email Targets Travel Agents
Once again, fraudsters have issued fake payment demand emails to travel agents that appear as if they were sent on behalf of International Air Transport Association (IATA).

March 18, 2014 —
ASTA Releases Value of Travel Agents Study Results
ASTA released results of a new study, Value of Travel Agents, a few weeks ago. Findings from the study discovered that over half of Millennial (59%), Xer (53%) and Boomer (58%) leisure travelers who used travel agents...

February 14, 2014 —
Washington State Call to Action – Seller of Travel Revisions
There is a bill rapidly moving through the Washington State Legislature that would make the state’s convoluted and burdensome...

February 4, 2014 —
Preferred Booking Methods Continue to Shift for Agents
Today, ASTA released its eighth annual Supplier-Travel Agent Marketing Report. The study looks at trends in the supplier-travel agent relationship, motivation for choosing a supplier at point-of-sale...

January 22, 2014 —
IATA NDC Settlement
ASTA is pleased to advise that, following lengthy negotiations, the Open Allies For Airfare Transparency coalition, of which ASTA is a founding and active member...

January 14, 2014 —
American Airlines, US Airways Begin Code-Sharing on Each Other's Flights
American Airlines reports that it and USAir, in implementing the DOT-approved merger will greatly expand the number of code-share operations...

January 10, 2014 —
ASTA’s 2014 Travel Agency New Year’s Resolutions
Let’s welcome 2014 with 10 great resolutions designed to take your business,career and industry to the next level.

January 7, 2014 —
Budget Legislation Increases 9/11 Security Fee
On December 12, by a vote of 332 to 94, the House of Representatives passed the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 (H.J.Res. 59).

August 2, 2013 —
State Department Issues Worldwide Alert
The alert does not mean that Americans should not travel during August. It does mean that everyone traveling should...

July 16, 2013 —
ASTA's Response to Woman's Day Article
ASTA issued the following letter to the Editor at Woman's Day Magazine re: the article entitled “10 Things Travel Agents Won’t Tell You”

July 1, 2013 —
U.S. Issues Egypt Travel Warning
Following the death of Andrew Pocter, a U.S. citizen killed in Alexandria on June 28...

June 28, 2013 —
ASTA Working for You: Nationwide Travel Insurance Standards Initiative
Since 2009, the U.S. Travel Insurance Association (UStiA) and the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) have been working together to...

June 28, 2013 —
Washington State Legislative Update – Tax Increase on Commissions Defeated
Congratulations, Washington ASTA members! The final version of the Washington state budget, agreed to by legislative leaders...

June 18, 2013 —
Washington Call to Action #3 – Last Chance to Stop $11.7 Million Tax Increase
Today, the Washington legislature enters the final days of its overtime session to hammer out a state budget by June 30 (after which a government shutdown will occur).

June 4, 2013 —
Washington Call to Action #2 – Immediate Action Required to Stop Tax Increase
We want to update you on where things stand a month out from ASTA’s “action alert” on legislation to eliminate Washington travel agents’...

May 29, 2013 —
Connecticut Call to Action – Help Fight New 15% Tax on Hotel Booking Fees
We are told that the tentative budget agreement reached yesterday between Governor Dannel Malloy and General Assembly leaders...

May 2, 2013 —
Washington Call to Action – B&O Tax Increase on Travel Agents
As you may know, since the 1970s travel agents and tour operators in the State of Washington pay a reduced state business and occupation (B&O) tax rate of 0.275...

April 25, 2013 —
Federal Call to Action: Sequestration and the Travel Industry
As you’ve probably heard, across-the-board federal budget cuts known as “sequestration” are threatening to wreak havoc on the U.S.

April 24, 2013 —
United Change Fee Increase Update, US Airways Matches Increase
Update: United Airlines (UA) has increased its change fee in “markets/fares that ...

April 17, 2013 —
Ohio Legislative Update – House Budget Rejects Sales Tax Expansion
Good news! ASTA members played a critical role by taking action and sending advocacy messages to state legislators.

March 15, 2013 —
Legislative Update – Governor Dayton Drops Sales Tax Proposal
ASTA members played a critical role in the broad-based campaign to defeat this ill-considered scheme, which would have cost the average Minnesota agency an estimated $300,000 a year in additional taxes.

March 15, 2013 —
WARNING: DOT Auditing Large Travel Agencies for Code-Share Disclosure Compliance
ASTA recently discovered that the Department of Transportation (DOT) has initiated a project to make test calls to the “top ten brick and mortar travel agencies by revenue”

March 5, 2013 —
Ohio Legislative Update – Sales Tax on Travel Agents
We want to update you on where things stand in Ohio a few weeks out from ASTA’s “action alert” on Governor Kasich’s proposal to extend the state’s sales tax to “travel agent services.”

February 28, 2013 —
TSA PreCheck: What travel agents must know and do so their clients can take advantage of expedited security screening
In order for your Trusted Traveler customers to take advantage of TSA Pre?™ expedited security screening, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) urges...

February 22, 2013 —
Minnesota Legislative Update – Sales Tax on Travel Agents
An update on where things stand in Minnesota a few weeks out from ASTA’s “action alert” on Governor Dayton’s proposal to extend the state sales tax to “travel agent services.”

February 19, 2013 —
Travel Industry to Feel Impact of Potential U.S. Spending Cuts
The looming threat of automatic federal spending cuts triggered by a March 1 deadline may have a significant effect on the U.S. travel industry.

February 15, 2013 —
Ohio Call to Action – Sales Tax on Travel Agents
Ohio Governor, John Kasich, released a tax and spending proposal that would include “travel agent services” as taxable. ASTA is calling on agents to take these actions...

February 8, 2013 —
Virginia Member Legislative Update
Good news regarding the outcome of ASTA’s initial “action alert” on pending Virginia tax legislation. On January 23, the House Committee on Finance voted unanimously...

January 25, 2013 —
Minnesota Call to Action on Sales Tax on Travel Agents
Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton released budget proposal which includes additional taxes on travel agent services, now is the time for you to take action.

January 25, 2013 —
Virginia Member Update on Sales, Occupancy Tax Bills
An update on the incredible response to ASTA’s “action alert” on pending tax bills that would impact our industry.

January 18, 2013 —
Virginia Member Alert on Sales, Occupancy Tax Bills
As the Virginia legislature begins its short legislative session, several bills have been introduced that would have serious consequences for travel agents in Virginia.

January 16, 2013 —
Presidential Inauguration’s Impact on Travel
Travelers to/from and within the Washington, D.C. region should be made aware of transportation and logistics changes that will occur in conjunction with the 57th Presidential Inauguration...

November 28, 2011 —
ASTA Applauds Sen. Menendez for Stance on Ancillary Fees
Since the beginning, ASTA has been at the forefront on the issue of ancillary fees and has worked to ensure that travel agents are able to serve consumers and compete on a level playing field.

April 22, 2011 —
DOT’s Enhanced Airline Passenger Protection Rulemaking Impact Assessment on Travel Agents
There are several rules that may have a profound impact on the way travel agents do business.

April 18, 2011 —
ASTA Holds Board Meeting at International Destination Expo
ASTA held its first Board of Directors meeting of 2011 last week (April 13-14).

April 8, 2011 —
Notice: U.S. Braces for Shutdown of Non-Essential Government Services, Including Many Tourist Sites
Members are to advise customers the consequences of government shutdown of non-essential services.

March 31, 2011 —
Organizational Changes at ASTA
Several organizational changes, the outcome of which is intended to serve you better, have been made at ASTA.

March 29, 2011 —
Call to Action on Airline Ancillary Fee Transparency from Chris Russo and the ASTA Executive Committee
Make your voice heard in support of language compelling disclosure of Ancillary Fee.

March 17, 2011 —
Japan Update: Health Warning, State Department Evacuation Plans and Japan National Tourism Organization Resources
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has issued a recommendation that all Americans within 50 miles of the Fukushima reactors evacuate the area.

March 16, 2011 —
Department of Transportation Policy on GDS Display Bias
The DOT has recently sent a written guidance to the GDSs and some online travel agencies on the issue of display bias.

March 14, 2011 —
Japan Travel Update: Airlines Concessions, State Department Alert and Reminder for Travelers to Register at STEP
The Department of State issued a travel alert for Japan because of issues related to the recent earthquake in Japan.

February 1, 2011 —
Egypt Travel Update
U.S. citizens advised to avoid travel to Egypt due to ongoing political and social unrest.

January 27, 2011 —
Travelers to Canada with Criminal Convictions, including Misdemeanors and DWIs, May Be Denied Entrance
Members are advised to remind customers traveling to Canada of a long standing law that may deny them entrance if they have ever been convicted of a criminal offense.

January 20, 2011 —
ASTA Joins More Than 115 of Nation's Largest Travel Companies in Support of Full Access to Fare and Fee Information, Transparent Pricing
ASTA joined more than 115 of the country's largest travel companies in launching the Open Allies for Airfare Transparency coalition.

January 11, 2011 —
Sabre Temporarily Ends De-Preferencing of AA Flights
Sabre has ended its “de-preferencing” of American’s inventory and fares in the Sabre system.

January 5, 2011 —
Travel Agent Tools Regarding the American Airlines (AA) and Travel Agency Distribution System Dispute
A dispute that until recently was limited to American Airlines and two large online travel agencies, Orbitz and Expedia, has escalated.

December 13, 2010 —
ASTA Welcomes New CEO, Tony Gonchar
Gonchar will leverage his successful leadership roles in complex strategic planning; marketing and branding, sales management; and customer recognition and retention to take ASTA to the next level.

November 22, 2010 —
UPDATE to ASTA Update on Airlines' Shifting of Distribution Costs
Since ASTA's first Update issued Friday, November 19, a major development has occurred.

November 19, 2010 —
ASTA Update on Airlines' Shifting of Distribution Costs
American Airlines (AA) has announced that, beginning on or after Dec. 20, 2010, it will impose booked-segment fees on most of Travelport's Galileo and Worldspan subscribers located...

November 19, 2010 —
Possible TSA Body Scanner Boycott November 24: Prepare Your Clients for Delays
Several groups have announced plans to encourage travelers on November 24 to opt-out of the Transportation Security Administration’s full body scanner machines and opt-in for TSA’s enhanced pat-downs. The following has been prepared to help the passage through airport security.

September 16, 2010 —
American to Inhibit Ticketing on Reservations without Secure Flight Passenger Data
Announced that by a set date, it is inhibiting ticketing on all bookings that do not have Secure Flight Passenger Data (SFPD)...

August 5, 2010 —
Mexicana Stops Issuing Tickets; ARC Stops Mexicana Processing
Mexicana Airlines' (MX) has filed for bankruptcy protection in the U.S. and Mexico and announced Wednesday that it has suspended all ticket sales until further notice.

August 3, 2010 —
ARC Continues Mexicana Airlines Processing
Mexicana Airlines has filed for bankruptcy protection in the U.S. and Mexico and has stated that it expects to continue to operate flights and customer programs without interruption while it reorganizes.

July 15, 2010 —
ASTA Government Affairs Update
This week, the U.S. House of Representatives took an important step on a matter of vital importance to the travel agency community...

July 8, 2010 —
New Passport Fees Imposed by U.S. State Department
Effective July 13, the U.S. State Department will impose new fees...

July 7, 2010 —
US Airways Threatens to Cancel Flights that Don't Contain Secure Flight Data
US Airways issued a notice this week warning agents that effective November 1, 2010...

June 7, 2010 —
DOT Passenger Rights
ASTA intends to support Department of Transport's (DOT) proposed rules designed to increase the protection of consumers buying and using air transportation...

April 21, 2010 —
Cuba Requires Visitors to Buy Travel Insurance
Under a newly enacted Cuban law, foreigners traveling to the island will need to purchase a travel insurance policy to cover medical expenses incurred during their sojourn in Cuba...

April 16, 2010 —
United Expands Credit Card Merchant Transfer
While United (UA) has not expanded its credit card transfer initiative to additional retail travel agents, several consolidators have reported that UA has transferred...

April 15, 2010 —
Volcanic Ash Cloud Creating Massive Travel Disruptions
Due to volcanic ash drifting across Europe from Iceland, airports across Europe have started shutting...

April 1, 2010 —
Fraud Prevention Training
ASTA members: You are reminded to be vigilant when accepting new clients, especially those located outside your immediate area, which you are unable to...

January 18, 2010 —
US and American Airways Raise Baggage Fees
Effective for tickets issued on or after Jan. 18, 2010 for travel on or after Feb. 1, 2010, US Airways has matched Continental, Delta and United and raised its online baggage check-in fees...

January 13, 2010 —
United Raises Baggage Fees
Effective for tickets issued on or after Jan. 14, 2010 for travel on or after Jan. 21, 2010, United Airlines (UA) has increased its domestic checked baggage fees...

January 4, 2010 —
Florida Issues Travel Insurance Warning to Travel Sellers
The State of Florida recently issued a warning to all travel sellers that they must be properly licensed and appointed by...

December 24, 2009 —
Changes to Missouri Tax on Sale of Amusement, Theater and Recreation Admissions
As a result of a recent decision of the Supreme Court of Missouri, the state has changed the way it applies its tax on the sale of...

December 24, 2009 —
Deadline for REAL ID Extended – No Change in Air Travelers’ Document Identification Over the Holidays
The Department of Homeland Security has issued a statement extending the deadline...

December 17, 2009 —
British Airways Strike Canceled – For Now
British Airways (BA) cabin crew strike that was set to begin Dec. 22, 2009 has been cancelled by a UK court.

December 9, 2009 —
New FTC Advertising Rules on Endorsements
Important new rules went into effect which change the way that companies can use endorsements by consumers, experts, organizations and celebrities...

September 11, 2009 —
Facts You Must Know About NYC Hotel Tax
ASTA has been issuing alerts and Dateline ASTA articles as it has acquired more information about the new hotel room occupancy tax (HROT) imposed by New York City on September 1

September 3, 2009 —
New York City Fails to Answer Critical Questions: City’s Interpretation of New Rules Unacceptable
New York City has now released the Audit Procedure document and instead of providing the necessary guidance on issues of interpretation, application and enforcement which the Department had assured ASTA would be covered, the Statement generates additional confusion...

August 31, 2009 —
New York City Hotel Service Fee Tax Goes Into Effect Tomorrow
The new tax on agency service fees imposed by the City of New York without notice, hearing or other opportunity for meaningful input will be implemented tomorrow, according to advice received from the city's Department of Finance.

August 28, 2009 —
US Airways Increases Baggage Fees; US Airways and Continental Add Second Transatlantic Bag Fee
US Airways will increase its current checked baggage fees by $5 and add a new transatlantic second bag fee.

August 7, 2009 —
The Carrier Fees Project
Several Worldspan subscribers recently received a product advisory from Travelport providing details of a new product called Carrier Ticketing Fees. Other GDS subscribers have received similar notices.

July 31, 2009 —
British Airways Adds Second Bag Fee
Effective for economy class (World Traveller) reservations ticketed and traveled on or after...

July 17, 2009 —
Join ASTA for a Briefing on ASTA, Industry, Congressional Efforts to Stop United’s Proposed Shift of Credit Card Fees
ASTA will hold a dial-in conference to update media and ASTA members on the current status and recent activities by ASTA, its industry partners and members of Congress in reaction to United Airlines' efforts...

July 14, 2009 —
Today is the Day!
Over the past week, ASTA members from across the country have answered the call to make their voices heard; we are getting the attention of Congress, but there is more to be done

July 7, 2009 —
Take Political Action Regarding United Credit Card Policy - Send ASTA Your Efforts
If you have not sent ASTA a copy of e-mails or letters you have sent to your congressman and senators regarding the United credit card cost shift, please send them to us today at askasta@asta.org.

June 25, 2009 —
United Terminates Some Agents’ Access to Credit Card Tickets
ASTA has received confirmation that United Air Lines has terminated some agencies' right to process credit card transactions effective July 20, 2009. Select agencies were advised yesterday...

June 17, 2009 —
CDC Plans to Replace H1N1 Travel Precaution Notice to Mexico with General Global Outbreak Notice
Effective June 17, 2009, CDC plans to replace both its travel precaution notice for H1N1 flu in Mexico and its general outbreak notice

June 11, 2009 —
New SBA Loan Program Offers Relief to Small Businesses
Generous repayment terms designed to help businesses through the economic downturn

June 11, 2009 —
WHO Raises H1N1 Outbreak Status to Phase 6
The ongoing outbreak of H1N1 flu continues to expand across the globe. Today, the World Health Organization (WHO) updated the status of the H1N1 flu outbreak

May 15, 2009 —
UPDATE: CDC Downgrades Travel Warning to Mexico
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has informed ASTA that its Travel Warning for the H1N1 flu in Mexico will be ...

May 7, 2009 —
UPDATE: Secure Flight
Beginning May 15, the name you input in the Passenger Name Record (PNR) Name Field should match the name on the ID the traveler plans to use at the airport.

April 27, 2009 —
Latest News on the Swine Flu Outbreak
ASTA is continuing to monitor the ongoing situation regarding the outbreak of swine flu in both Mexico and the United States.

April 22, 2009 —
The Airlines’ Brave New World: Not a Consumer Utopia
As I'm sure you have read, two airline CEOs recently spoke to the media about their vision of a future in which travel agents and OTAs will pay the airlines for access to their products. Clearly this is not a vision which we as an industry share.

April 10, 2009 —
IRS Announces Extension of Net Operating Loss Carryback Provision
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced an important change in the tax treatment of business losses. Effective immediately, qualified small businesses with deductions exceeding income in 2008...

March 13, 2009 —
IRS Scam Warning
As tax season approaches, you should be aware of a new scam targeting small businesses.

February 13, 2009 —
ACTION REQUIRED: Small Business Lending Stripped out of Stimulus Bill
ASTA has learned that Congressional negotiators, have removed a program from the stimulus package that would have allowed travel agencies and other small businesses to receive loans directly from the Small Business Administration.

January 28, 2009 —
Travel Insurance Firm Ceases Operations
Prime Travel Protection, a travel insurance company based in Arvada, Colo., announced that it has initiated a liquidation of services, effective Jan. 26, 2009...

January 23, 2009 —
TourTech International Ceases Operations
ASTA has learned that TourTech International of Irvine, CA, also operating as tourtech.net, has ceased operations.

December 3, 2008 —
The New Secure Flight Program New rules for passenger screening on the way in early 2009
On Oct. 28, 2008, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) published the Final Rule for the new Secure Flight passenger-screening program.

December 1, 2008 —
Message from ASTA's India Chapter
The following message comes from ASTA's India Chapter President regarding the recent attacks in Mumbai and the general state of stability in India. ASTA sends its sincere encouragement and support to the people of India...

November 24, 2008 —
Delta and ARC Payment Express
In response to ASTA's inquiry, ARC has acknowledged that, due to technical problems, they are still distributing the final round of Payment Express debits and will likely be completed early this week.

November 12, 2008 —
AirTran Adds First Bag Fee; Delta Increases Change Fee
Effective for tickets issued on or after Nov. 12, 2008, for travel on or after Dec. 5, 2008, AirTran will charge a $15 fee for the first checked bag

November 7, 2008 —
United Airlines Rescinds Planned Second Bag Fee Increase
United Airlines has rescinded its second bag fee increase, which was planned to become effective Nov. 10, 2008

November 5, 2008 —
Delta Adds First Bag Fee and Lowers Second Bag Fee
Effective for tickets issued after Nov. 5, 2008 for travel on or after Dec. 5, 2008, Delta will impose a $15 first bag fee and a $25 second bag fee

October 24, 2008 —
How Will The New DHS Secure Flight Rules Affect Your Business?
ASTA filed extensive comments on the proposed Final Rule on Secure Flight , most of which were acted upon favorably in the final rule..

October 23, 2008 —
ARC Discontinues Payment Express
The Airline Reporting Corporation (ARC) has announced that it will discontinue its Payment Express program and the related automated collection of carrier fees and charges

October 23, 2008 —
DHS Secure Flight Final Rule Released
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued its Final Rule on Secure Flight. This rule shifts pre-departure watch list matching responsibilities from individual airlines to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)...

October 1, 2008 —
Take Action on the Financial Crisis
Urge Congress to Pass a Bipartisan Financial Markets Rescue Bill

September 18, 2008 —
Air Canada Changes Bag Fees and Changes Fuel Surcharge Policy
Effective Sept. 23, 2008, Air Canada will eliminate its current $25 fee for checking a second bag for travel within North America on Tango and Tango Plus fares.

September 15, 2008 —
Frontier Adds $15 First Bag Fee
Effective for tickets purchased on or after Sept. 13, 2008, Frontier Airlines (F9) will charge a $15 fee, each-way, for the first bag checked for travel on or after Nov. 1, 2008.

September 15, 2008 —
United Increases Second Checked Bag Fee to $50
Effective for tickets purchased on or after Sept. 16, 2008, United Airlines (UA) will increase the second checked bag fee from $25 to $50, each-way, for travel on or after Nov. 10, 2008.

September 11, 2008 —
TSA Issues Advisory for Travel to Venezuela
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced today that the agency has been unable to assess security measures at international airports in Venezuela that serve as the last point of departure for non-stop flights to the United States.

September 5, 2008 —
Continental Adds First Bag Fee
Effective for tickets purchased on or after Sept. 5, 2008, Continental Airlines (CO) will charge a fee.

August 28, 2008 —
Delta Payment Express Alert
ASTA has asked Delta to clarify its confusing Booking Enforcement Policy that has, in some cases, resulted in erroneous charges being sent to agents. Members have shared examples of Delta's audit system sending out erroneous debit memos.

August 13, 2008 —
ASTA Board Approves Changes to Officer Eligibility Status
At its meeting held last week in New Orleans, ASTA's Board of Directors reviewed ASTA's current financial position with respect to targeted goals, and governance with an eye to making the organization more effective in 2009.

July 30, 2008 —
Delta Air Lines Doubles Fee to $50 for Second Checked Bag
Delta Air Lines has announced that customers who purchase domestic economy class tickets on or after July 31, 2008 will be charged $50 each way ($100 roundtrip) for the second checked bag.

July 24, 2008 —
American and United Impose Ticketing Time Limits on Refundable Inventories, American Increases Confirmed Flight Change Fee
American Airlines (AA), effective July 23, 2008, and United Airlines (UA), effective July 15, 2008, have imposed ticketing time limit restrictions on all refundable inventories.

July 24, 2008 —
ASTA Officials Elections Results
The following ASTA members have been certified by Mary Peters, CTC, ASTA National Vice President and Secretary, as elected to serve in the respective offices indicated.

July 9, 2008 —
Northwest Adds First Bag Fee and Award Ticket Fee, Increases Change Fee
Effective for domestic tickets booked on or after July 10 for travel on or after Aug. 28, Northwest will charge $15 each way ($30 roundtrip) for the first checked bag. The second bag fee is $25...

June 26, 2008 —
ASTA Testifies at Hearing on Air Transportation Crisis
ASTA's Senior Vice President of Legal and Industry Affairs Paul Ruden is testifying today at 10 a.m. EDT at a Congressional hearing on How the Air Transportation Crisis is Hurting Travelers, Entrepreneurs and the Economy.

June 26, 2008 —
Florida Imposes Severe Restrictions on Sellers of Travel
Florida Governor Charlie Crist has signed into law SB 1310 which imposes harsh consequences on travel agents as well as American citizens and lawful permanent residents seeking to visit family members abroad.

June 13, 2008 —
US Airways Adds Fees for First Checked Bag and Domestic Economy Class Beverage Service
US Airways (US) has announced that customers who book economy class tickets for travel on or after July 9, 2008, will be charged $15 each way ($30 roundtrip) for the first checked bag...

June 12, 2008 —
United Airlines Adds $15 Fee for First Checked Bag
United Airlines (UA) has announced that customers who purchase domestic economy class tickets on or after June 13, 2008 will be charged $15 each way ($30 roundtrip) for the first checked bag.

June 9, 2008 —
ASTA Provides Summer Money-Saving Travel Tips to TV Audiences Across US
Tomorrow (June 10), ASTA President and CEO Cheryl Hudak, CTC, will be appearing in a series of morning show interviews on TV stations across the country as part of a co-op satellite media tour...

June 5, 2008 —
Carnival Corp. Increases Fuel Surcharges
Carnival Corp. announced that, effective for bookings made on and after June 12, 2008, it will raise the fuel surcharge for new bookings on Carnival Cruise Lines, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and Seabourn.

June 3, 2008 —
Spirit Air Withdraws from ARC, Offers Direct "Ticketless" Option Through GDSs
Effective June 16, 2008, Spirit Airlines is voluntarily terminating its agreement with ARC. The final ARC sales report in which agents can include Spirit validated transactions is the Sales Report Period Ending Date (PED) June 22, 2008.

June 2, 2008 —
Delta to Enforce Booking Policy and Use ARC Payment Express to Collect Fees
Effective June 1, 2008, Delta has announced plans to audit all GDS bookings for booking policy violations and use ARC Payment Express to collect all associated penalties. Agents will be charged $3.50 per inactive and passive segment violation and $50 per booking for duplicate, fraudulent, fictitious and speculative records. In addition Delta will charge $50 per booking for invalid name changes and churning.

May 22, 2008 —
DOT Issues Guidance on Disclosing Checked Baggage Fees
The Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a notice to airlines and travel agents regarding the disclosure of checked baggage fees. Effective immediately, DOT requires the airlines and travel agents to clearly disclose significant conditions applicable to airfares, and the airlines' new baggage fees are considered a significant condition.

May 21, 2008 —
American Airlines Adds $15 Fee for First Checked Bag and Increases Exchange Fee
American Airlines (AA) has announced that customers who purchase domestic economy class tickets on or after June 15, 2008 will be charged $15 each way ($30 roundtrip) for the first checked bag. The new fee applies to customers traveling within and between the United States, U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Canada.

April 29, 2008 —
US Airways Increases Change Fee
Effective for all tickets issued on or after April 29, 2008, US Airways_ change fee for non-refundable fares will increase by $50 per ticket.

April 14, 2008 —
ASTA Board Approves International Premium Membership
In conjunction with its third annual International Destination Expo, held this year in Lyon, France, ASTA held its first Board of Directors (BOD) meeting of 2008.

April 11, 2008 —
Frontier Airlines Enters Bankruptcy: Plans to Continue Operating
On April 10, 2008, Frontier Airlines filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the Southern District of New York.

April 7, 2008 —
Florida Travel Agents Facing Tax on Service Fees
Efforts are underway to tax travel intermediaries' service fees when booking... This tax treatment is wrong for travel agents and bad policy.

April 3, 2008 —
ARC Announces Procedures for ATA Processing, Credit Card Refunds Allowed with Current Sales Report
Following American Trans Air's (ATA) cessation of operations, the Airlines Reporting Corp. (ARC) has announced its reporting procedures for travel agents. Effective immediately, ARC will not process ATA (TZ) validated CASH REFUNDS submitted in the current sales report for the sales report Period Ending Date (PED) April 6, 2008.

April 3, 2008 —
ATA Airlines Shuts Down and Files for Bankruptcy Protection
Effective April 3, 2008, ATA Airlines has ceased operating and has cancelled all current and future flights. On April 2, 2008, ATA filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Indianapolis.

March 31, 2008 —
Aloha Shuts Down March 31, 2008: United Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines Make Concessions
Effective April 1, 2008, Aloha Airlines will discontinue all scheduled flights. On March 31, Aloha will operate its schedule with the exception of flights from Hawaii to the West Coast and flights from Orange County to Reno and Sacramento, and Oakland to Las Vegas.

March 24, 2008 —
Aloha Airlines Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
On March 21, 2008, Aloha Airlines filed and received U.S. Bankruptcy Court approval to continue operating under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code.

February 27, 2008 —
US Airways Adds Fee for Second Bag
US Airways announced that for tickets purchased on or after Feb. 26, 2008 that contain travel on or after May 5, 2008, it will charge passengers a $25 service fee for a second checked bag for most coach customers.

February 4, 2008 —
British Airways Holidays to Discontinue Travel Agent Bookings
In an announcement dated Feb. 4, 2008, British Airways Holidays announced on its travel trade web site that travel agents will soon no longer be able to book British Airways Holidays products, including hotels, car rentals, sightseeing and transfer options.

January 25, 2008 —
ASTA Seeks Additional Claimants for Arbitration Complaint against ARC for Unauthorized Drafting of Agent Accounts
Has your agency received an invoice from ARC Payment Express on behalf of United Airlines that will be debited from your ARC checking account on Jan. 31, 2008? Are you interesting in helping the travel agency community by being named in a complaint with the Travel Agent Arbiter against ARC? If so, we would like to talk to you on or before Jan. 28.

January 18, 2008 —
ASTA Plans to File a Complaint with ARC over Unauthorized Drafting of Agents' Account
ASTA plans to file a complaint, on behalf of two ASTA members, against The Airlines Reporting Corp. (ARC) with the Travel Agent Arbiter for ARC's plan to withdraw funds from the agents' ARC checking at an airline's request.

December 20, 2007 —
Dot Travel Update: Reserved Place Names to be Released Dec. 21, Use Requirement Begins in 2008
The dot Travel registry, Tralliance, has announced several proposed policy changes for .travel names.

December 19, 2007 —
Southwest to Offer Limited Inventory in Galileo for a Fee
Effective Jan. 1, 2008, Galileo plans to charge its subscribers $1.25 per segment when making a Southwest Airlines booking in Galileo.

December 17, 2007 —
Dot Travel Update: Reserved Place Names Release, Update on Use Requirement
Effective Dec. 21, the Dot Travel Registry, Tralliance, will implement a new policy requiring the use of all new registered .travel names.

December 17, 2007 —
UA to Draft Agents' ARC Account for Booking Practices: Member Action Required
ASTA has had further discussions with the Airlines Reporting Corp. (ARC) regarding the recent United Airlines (UA) bills asserting penalties against agencies for failure to work schedule changes and cancel inactive segments.

December 12, 2007 —
ARC Invoicing Agents for UA Booking Practices with Intent to Automatically Draft Agent’s ARC Account
On December 11, 2007, some ARC accredited travel agents began receiving invoices from United Airlines charging them $3.50 for every inactive segment that they have failed to “action” between July and September, 2007.

December 7, 2007 —
Effective January 31, 2008, a birth certificate with photo ID or a passport will be required at land & sea entry points from Canada
Effective January 31, 2008, U.S. and Canadian citizens (19 and older) will be required to present proof of citizenship.

November 1, 2007 —
ARC Clarifies ARA Amendments
ASTA members may have recently received an advertisement for a non-ASTA industry webinar indicating that travel agents must comply with Payment Card Industry (PCI) security standards.

October 1, 2007 —
Windjammer Barefoot Cruises Cancels Sailings
Windjammer Barefoot Cruises announced on a message through its phone reservation line that it has cancelled all cruises scheduled to sail the week of Sept. 29, 2007 for the Legacy, Polynesia and Yankee Clipper.

September 28, 2007 —
RCI Eliminating Travel Agent Air Commissions
Royal Caribbean Inc. announced today that it will eliminate travel agent commissions on airline bookings made through the cruise line.

September 17, 2007 —
ASTA to Hold Webinar, Sept 20: ARC’s Proposed Fee Increase and Its Impact on Your Bottom Line
Please join ASTA for an educational and informative Webinar on ARC’s proposed annual fee increase of 172 percent and how it will impact your business and bottom line.

August 9, 2007 —
Airline Fee / GDS Optional Plan Update
Worldspan subscribers have been asked to return their contract amendment by August 18 to ensure it is in effect by September 1. This is especially important if you have elected to opt-in to Worldspan’s Super Access plan.

August 9, 2007 —
ASTA Announces Ninth Director-At-Large
ASTA is pleased to announce that Vickie Greenlee of For Travelers Only in Jackson, Mississippi has been certified by ASTA National Secretary Mary Louise Seifert, CTC, as the ninth elected Director-at-Large, breaking the previous tie with Bob Kern.

August 9, 2007 —
DHS Announces Combined Secure Flight Proposed Rule and Update to APIS Manifest Rule
On August 9, 2007, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced steps to strengthen the United States’ aviation security system by combining the final rule for Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) and the proposed new rule for Secure Flight.

August 4, 2007 —
Registration Extended for ASTA’s Podcast on New GDS Fees
Registration for ASTA’s Business Executive Series Podcast on New GDS Fees has been extended through Aug. 4, 2006.

August 3, 2007 —
GDS Fee Alert
Worldspan’s has requested that its subscribers return their contract amendment by August 18 to ensure it is in effect by September 1. If it is not returned by August 18 and and Worldspan’s Super Access Plan is selected, your agency may be subject to fees charged by the airlines.

July 21, 2007 —
Northwest Matches $3.50 Segment Fee
Registration for ASTA’s Business Executive Series Podcast on New GDS Fees has been extended through Aug. 4, 2006.

July 20, 2007 —
Princess Delays Crown Princess Departure
According to Princess Cruises, the Crown Princess’ July 20 sailing from New York City is now scheduled to depart on July 22, due to the heavy listing accident that occurred on July 18, 2006 near Port Canaveral, FL.

July 17, 2007 —
United Matches AA’s $3.50 Segment Fee; Worldspan Provides Glimpse of its New Optional Plans
American Airlines and United Airlines have announced plans to charge GDS subscribers, with some exceptions, segment fees of $3.50 per net booked segment beginning September 1, 2006.

July 13, 2007 —
AA Segment Fee Announcement: Galileo and Amadeus Update
Yesterday, ASTA sent you two e-mail messages about the rapidly developing situation regarding future access to full airline content through GDSs and other sources. More information we have gathered today is set out below. ASTA will continue to be a premier information source for its members as this situation evolves and we will continue to send you updates when we have accurate information to share.

July 12, 2007 —
American Airlines Announces New Segment Fee
This morning American Airlines announced that it will impose a new $3.50 per segment fee on all travel agencies who book American segments through select GDS services as identified by American.

July 6, 2007 —
Varig Announces Reduced Flight Operations
VARIG Airlines has posted the following announcement on its web site: "VARIG has reduced its flight operations until July 11, 2006. If you are traveling during this period, please contact our Reservations department to re-arrange your travel plans. In North America, please call 800 - 468 - 2744."

June 30, 2007 —
Northwest Changes Medical/Bereavement Ticket Policy
Effective July 1, travel agents may no longer book and ticket medical and bereavement reservations on Northwest Airlines. For complete details, visit the "Fares and Promotions" tab of WorldAgentdirect.com.

June 30, 2007 —
Reminder: Some Carriers Do Not Accept Manual Documents
Not all carriers accept manual 4-flight and Prepaid Ticket Advice (PTA) documents. Prior to issuing a manual document, agents should review the Airlines Reporting Corporation’s (ARC) Manual Document Acceptance Chart. Failure to follow carrier policy could result in a debit memo. Northwest Airlines indicates that it will access a $100 debit memo for any manual document it receives.

June 23, 2007 —
Alaska / Horizon Announce New Fee for Changes Made to Travel Agent Tickets
Effective July 1, 2006, Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air will begin collecting a $50 service fee for any ticket reissued by either airline of a ticket originally issued by a travel agent. The new $50 fee is in addition to any change fees and applicable fare differences that may apply.

June 22, 2007 —
Air Canada to Provide Tango Fares Only Online to Agents
Effective July 7, Air Canada will provide travel agents with access to Tango Fares at its travel agent booking portal www.aircanada.com/agents. Tango is Air Canada’s low-fare product that requires an additional fee for advance seat assignments and also allows a discount if luggage is not checked.

June 20, 2007 —
U.S. Government Delays Land and Sea Passport Requirement for Canada, Mexico and Bermuda and Announces New Phased Initiative
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced on June 20, that they have delayed the land and sea passport requirement for Canada, Mexico and Bermuda that was previously scheduled to begin as early as Jan. 1, 2008, and have initiated a new "phased approach" to implementing the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI).

June 19, 2007 —
Update on Temporary Repeal of Passport Requirement for Canada, Mexico, Caribbean and Bermuda
The State Department has recently updated its Web site regarding passports with clarified language from the Department of Homeland Security regarding the travel requirements for children as well as the new accommodations announced June 8.

June 16, 2007 —
Malaria Found in Great Exuma, Bahamas
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recently received official reports of 14 confirmed malaria cases in Great Exuma, Bahamas. At this time, CDC is recommending chloroquine as an antimalarial medication for travelers to Great Exuma.

June 8, 2007 —
U.S. Government Temporarily Relaxes Passport Rules for Some Destinations; Note the Limits on Who Can Benefit
The U.S. Departments of State and Homeland Security announced on June 8, 2007, that effective today, U.S. citizens traveling by air to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda who have applied for, but not yet received passports, can temporarily enter and depart from the United States by air as long as they present both a government-issued photo identification and Department of State official "proof of application."

June 7, 2007 —
Mile Hi Tours Update
Mile Hi Tours, Inc., also operating as www.milehitours.com, a tour operator located in Denver, CO, has failed to respond to ASTA’s repeated attempts to contact them by telephone. It has been reported that Mile Hi Tours plans to file for bankruptcy protection within the next few days. ASTA will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the Supplier Bankrupties page.

June 7, 2007 —
Sabre Announces New Opt-In Subscribers Plan
On June 7, 2006, Sabre announced its new Efficient Access Solution (EAS) for its travel agency subscribers. This new optional plan will provide Sabre subscribers with access to full content, including published fares and Web fares, as well as private fares and agency negotiated rates, for AirTran, Continental, Delta, Northwest, United and US Airways.

June 6, 2007 —
Majestic America Cancels June 30 Alaska Cruise
Majestic America Line has cancelled the June 30 departure of the Empress of the North, which brings to seven the total number of cancelled sailings since the ship ran aground in Alaska's Inside Passage May 14.

May 30, 2007 —
Passengers on Trans-Atlantic Flights May Have Been Exposed to TB
Please advised that if one of your clients recently flew on either Air France Flight 385 departing from Atlanta to Paris on May 12 or the May 24 Czech Air Flight 0104 from Prague, Czech Republic, to Montreal, they may have been exposed to a rare and potentially fatal form of tuberculosis (XDR TB) that has proven resistant to drugs.

May 21, 2007 —
US Airways to Issue Retraction on Published VOID Policy
On Monday May 21, 2007, US Airways published an electronic newsletter to travel agents that included a section entitled “VOIDS” that contained incorrect information. ASTA has obtained clarification from US Airways. In the announcement, US Airways stated that “tickets must be voided before midnight” and “may only be voided if booked on the same calendar day prior to midnight Pacific Standard Time."

May 19, 2007 —
Majestic Cancels Three Empress of the North Sailings
Majestic America Line canceled the May 19, May 26 and June 2 departures of Empress of the North, following the vessel’s grounding in Alaska on Monday.

May 10, 2007 —
Celebrity Cruises Cancels Summit Alaska Sailing
Celebrity Cruises announced that it has canceled Summit’s scheduled May 20 Alaska sailing. The cancellation of the 7-day cruise resulted from a necessary dry dock to replace the ship’s starboard thrust bearing.

April 20, 2007 —
ASTA to Testify on Airline Passenger Rights
On Friday, April, 20, 2007, ASTA Senior Vice President for Legal and Industry Affairs Paul Ruden will testify at the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure’s Subcommittee on Aviation regarding Aviation Consumer Issues.

March 30, 2007 —
Passport Backlog
The U.S. State Department’s Passport Services unit is experiencing a major backlog in processing applications. Rather than taking the usual four to six weeks, routine applications or renewals are now taking 10 weeks.

March 19, 2007 —
Continental Warns Agents to Cancel Inactive Segments or Risk Debit
Effective March 12, 2007, Continental Airlines will, with the aid of new software called Segment Audit Tool (SAT), begin debiting travel agents $50 for every inactive segment (per passenger) that is not worked and canceled. As a result, it is imperative that you review your current procedures, and in some cases develop new procedures, for managing airline queues on a daily basis.

March 19, 2007 —
Travel to Canada Entrance Advisory
Members are advised to remind customers traveling to Canada of a long standing law that may deny them entrance if they have ever been convicted of a criminal offense.

March 1, 2007 —
Spirit Eliminates On-line Commissions
Spirit Airlines has announced that effective March 1, 2007, the airline will discontinue commission compensation for bookings made on its Web site for travel agents based in the USA, Puerto Rico and the USVI.

February 21, 2007 —
Caution: DOT Scam Resurfaces
Members are warned to be especially suspicious when receiving an unknown fax or e-mail requesting bank information from the U. S. Department of Transportation (DOT). Travel agents have reported receiving another round of fraudulent letters.

January 30, 2007 —
British Airways Strike Called Off
British Airways announced today that it has reached an agreement with its cabin crew, represented by the Transport and General Workers Union. As a result, strikes scheduled for Jan. 30 and 31, as well as strikes planned for Feb. 5, 6 and 7 and Feb. 12, 13 and 14, have been called off.

January 25, 2007 —
BA Strike Update – Flights Cancelled Jan 30, 31; Refunds Offered
The cabin crew branch of the Transport and General Workers Union has notified British Airways (BA) that it has cancelled the first day (Jan. 29) of its planned strike, but still plans to strike on Tuesday Jan. 30 and Wednesday Jan. 31, with possible further action planned Feb. 5,6 and 7 and Feb. 12,13, and 14.

January 22, 2007 —
British Airways’ Cabin Crew Announces Planned Strikes; Airline Responds
British Airways’ flight attendants, represented by the Transport and General Workers Union’s (T&G), has announced that it is planning strikes on January 29, 30 and 31; February 5, 6 and 7; and February 12, 13 and 14.